INTERPOL Asian Regional Conference Ends with Renewed Commitment to Regional Security

Law enforcement officials representing countries from Asia, the South Pacific, and the Middle East recently concluded the INTERPOL Asian Regional Conference, reaffirming their dedication to improving regional security through advanced collaboration, intelligence exchange, and coordinated operations. Held over two days from 18 to 19 September, the conference emphasized unified efforts to address critical challenges such as drug trafficking, cybercrime, terrorism, and environmental offenses affecting the region. Participants endorsed a comprehensive set of initiatives aimed at disrupting organized criminal networks, including: - Expanding information sharing among units focused on organized crime, cybercrime, counter-terrorism, and financial investigations. - Strengthening partnerships with INTERPOL’s General Secretariat to enable real-time operational and strategic analysis of criminal activities. - Amplifying asset freezing and recovery efforts, utilizing mechanisms like the INTERPOL Global Rapid Intervention of Payments (I-GRIP) and pilot programs such as Silver Notice/Silver Diffusion to deprive criminal groups of illicit proceeds. - Enhancing border cooperation—both physical and digital—to impede the transit of criminals, contraband, and illicit financial flows. Given the rapid evolution of cyber threats, delegates called for full leverage of INTERPOL’s cyber capabilities to tackle emerging challenges including AI-driven criminal tactics, deepfake exploitation, ransomware attacks, persistent infostealers and banking malware, as well as cloud infrastructure breaches. Ali Mohammed Al-Ali, INTERPOL’s Executive Committee Delegate for Asia and Chairperson of the conference, highlighted the region’s pivotal role, stating, \"This conference has again powerfully demonstrated Asia’s leadership in not only securing the region but also driving global security forward. Together, we are forging a future where international police cooperation remains the bedrock of stability and peace.\" The delegates also stressed the importance of strengthening strategic alliances with major regional and international bodies such as the Association of Southeast Asian Nations Chiefs of Police, the Gulf Cooperation Council Police, and the Pacific Islands Chiefs of Police to ensure a safer environment for all. INTERPOL, the world’s largest international police organization, comprises 196 member countries committed to fostering global safety and security through collaborative efforts.

Church Leads "Revolt of the Soul" Amid Nationwide Protest Against Corruption in Flood Control Projects

The Catholic Church will spearhead a "revolt of the soul" during a mass at the EDSA Shrine tomorrow, marking a significant moment within the wider “Trillion Peso March,” a national demonstration condemning corruption in flood control projects. Caritas Philippines president Rev. Colin Bagaforo is scheduled to lead the mass at 10:30 a.m. The Trillion Peso March aims to highlight growing public condemnation of large-scale graft tied to controversial flood mitigation efforts. Organizers are calling for accountability, an end to impunity, and the protection of the nation’s integrity. Participants are encouraged to wear white or display white ribbons to symbolize unity and resistance. Simultaneous protests will also unfold at Rizal Park and the EDSA People Power Monument, inviting Filipinos of all religious backgrounds to participate by offering prayers for the country’s welfare. Prior to the march, Archbishop Socrates Villegas of Lingayen-Dagupan released a pastoral letter urging a deeper, spiritual uprising against corruption. He emphasized that mere anger is insufficient to dismantle entrenched abuses, stating, "We need a revolt, a revolt not just against a corrupt system, but a revolt against the corrupt hearts and souls within us that enable the corrupt to prosper." Adding momentum, hundreds of students from the University of the Philippines-Los Baños staged a walkout wearing black to protest allegedly ghost and substandard projects. Chancellor Jose Camacho Jr. expressed support, highlighting continued budget cuts faced by state universities amid rampant graft allegations. The Legal Education Board also called on law schools to cultivate ethical leaders committed to combating corruption. The weekend’s protests are expected to attract approximately 30,000 participants throughout Metro Manila and key provinces, uniting diverse groups such as students, civil society organizations, church factions, and coalition movements. Coalition Tindig Pilipinas, led by democracy advocate Kiko Aquino Dee, stressed inclusivity across political spectrums provided the focus remains on rooting out systemic corruption. The event titled “Baha sa Luneta: Aksyon na Laban sa Korapsyon” will begin in Rizal Park with testimonies from flood victims, followed by a convergence at the People Power Monument for the Trillion Peso March later in the day. Live performances, including those by the band Ben&Ben, are planned, although organizers emphasized that the spotlight will be on communities most affected by flooding. Despite inclement weather predictions due to Tropical Storm Nando, organizers affirmed the activities will proceed "rain or shine."

Former Senator Gordon Calls for Renewed Filipino Resolve on PEFTOK’s 75th Anniversary

Former Senator Richard J. Gordon has called on Filipinos to contribute actively toward restoring the Philippines’ past stature as a leading Asian nation in both economic and military prowess. Speaking on the 75th anniversary of the Philippine Expeditionary Force to Korea (PEFTOK), Gordon commemorated the valor of Captain Conrado Yap and the thousands of Filipinos who served during the Korean War. He highlighted their sacrifices as a source of inspiration for all Filipinos to engage more deeply in nation-building efforts. "Captain Yap was my kababayan from Candelaria, Zambales. He was only 30 years old," Gordon noted. "Like many who fought alongside him, they never had the chance to raise families. They served willingly for a greater cause: freedom, democracy, and the advancement of humanity." Captain Yap’s heroism at Yultong Pass earned him the Philippines’ Medal of Valor, the U.S. Distinguished Service Cross, and in 2018, South Korea’s Taegeuk Order of Military Merit. Gordon stressed the urgent need for Filipinos to elect leaders capable of restoring the nation’s former military and economic status. "There was a time when the Philippines was Asia’s premier power. Today, we are merely a memory of that period," he said. "We have become dependent on resources abroad, sending our best talents overseas, while other nations build their defense industries. The greater tragedy is not our poverty, but forgetting the sacrifices made to secure our freedom." He urged citizens to reject complacency and invest in education, defense, and justice. "Stop wasting resources and elect leaders who truly serve the people—not entertainers playing the role of politicians. We should not wait for heroes to arise; we must embody heroism ourselves." The anniversary event was attended by Korean Ambassador to the Philippines H.E. Lee Sang-hwa, Carminda Arevalo of the National Historical Commission of the Philippines, Philippine Veterans Affairs Office Administrator and Undersecretary Reynaldo B. Mapagu, military personnel, veterans, and their families. Concluding his remarks, Gordon linked the sacrifices of PEFTOK to the enduring Filipino spirit of resistance, citing national icons from Lapu-Lapu to Jose Rizal, and culminating with Captain Yap’s ultimate sacrifice. "Their message remains clear: the Filipino must never surrender," Gordon affirmed.

Two Men Arrested in Separate Firearms Seizures During Mabolo, Waterfront Police Operations

Two separate operations conducted by the Mabolo and Waterfront Police Stations in Cebu City led to the arrest of two men found carrying firearms on the night of September 19 and the early morning of September 20, 2025. The first arrest occurred at a checkpoint along A. Soriano Street, Barangay Carreta, where a 29-year-old man named Jan Sol Ragasajo of Sitio Cabangcalan II, Barangay Bulacao, Cebu City, was apprehended. Officers stopped motorists for inspection and discovered Ragasajo was armed with a caliber .22 pistol loaded with two bullets. When asked to present his documentation, Ragasajo failed to provide any, resulting in his immediate detention. Later that evening at 10:50 PM, during an "Oplan Bulabog" operation in Sitio Laurente, Barangay Tejero, authorities arrested a 51-year-old construction worker identified as Romeo Patangan, alias "Meo," from Sitio Laray, Barangay Carreta. Details of the firearms confiscated from Patangan have not been disclosed. Both individuals are currently being held at their respective police stations—Mabolo and Waterfront—and are facing charges for violating Republic Act 10591, the Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act. The police continue to conduct rigorous enforcement activities to maintain public safety and prevent unlawful possession of firearms in the city.

Philippine Police Report Peaceful Anti-Corruption Protests Nationwide

Philippine National Police Highway Patrol Group (PNP-HPG) director PCol. Hansel Marantan reported on Sunday that anti-corruption demonstrations nationwide proceeded peacefully without any major disturbances as of late morning. Speaking at the People Power Monument on EDSA, Marantan shared that initial evaluations indicate the protests have been well-organized and calm. "So far, there is no significant untoward incident. I hope we will maintain it that way," he stated. According to police drone footage, around 3,000 protesters had assembled at the monument by 10 a.m. Marantan also noted that the PNP is adhering to the directive from acting PNP chief PGen. Melencio Nartatez Jr. to exercise maximum tolerance toward the demonstrators during the rallies.

Security Tightened at Mendiola Amid Nationwide Anti-Corruption Protests

Anti-corruption demonstrations persist at key locations such as Luneta Park and the People Power Monument, but the Mendiola area near Malacañang Palace remained notably peaceful and clear of protesters as of 11:30 a.m. on Sunday. Authorities have implemented stringent security protocols, including barricades and the presence of heightened police and fire personnel. Emergency response units, including ambulances and firetrucks, are stationed on standby near the Palace to ensure rapid intervention if needed. Access through the Mendiola gate leading to Malacañang is currently restricted for both vehicles and pedestrians. Meanwhile, parishioners attending Sunday mass at nearby St. Jude Thaddeus and San Miguel churches are advised to enter via the Nagtahan gate as an alternate route. These measures reflect ongoing efforts to maintain order and security during the current wave of nationwide protests.

Interior Secretary Confirms Majority of Rock-Throwing Protesters Near Malacañang Are Minors

Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla stated on Sunday that the majority of the masked individuals who threw rocks at police personnel in the Ayala and Mendiola areas were primarily minors. Speaking to reporters on Mendiola Bridge, Remulla revealed that initial intelligence suggested the youths intended to breach the security perimeter and reach Malacañang Palace. He explained, \"Their plan was to penetrate the perimeter and set fire to the palace; however, we adhered strictly to established rules and regulations.\" Remulla assured that law enforcement managed to disperse the group and maintained the security line despite the unrest. \"We held our position and will continue to do so,\" he added. Regarding those apprehended, Remulla confirmed that all individuals taken into custody will undergo interviews conducted in the presence of representatives from the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) to safeguard their rights. \"The interviews will involve the DSWD to ensure that their rights are not infringed upon,\" he noted. In a separate radio interview, Remulla disclosed that 19 individuals had been arrested, all confirmed minors. Although the identities are yet to be fully verified, he indicated that the agitators appeared to be between 15 and 17 years old. He further revealed that some protesters escalated to throwing Molotov cocktails. \"Despite the risks, we exercised maximum tolerance even as our officers were targeted,\" Remulla emphasized.

Malacañang Orders Suspension of Work and Classes in Metro Manila and 29 Provinces Due to Super Typhoon Nando

Malacañang has announced the suspension of work in government offices and classes at all levels across Metro Manila and 29 provinces in Luzon and the Visayas in anticipation of severe rainfall from Super Typhoon "Nando" (international name: Ragasa) and the southwest monsoon. This directive is outlined in Memorandum Circular No. 97, signed by Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin.\n\nThe suspension follows recommendations from the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC), which cited the forecast of intense rainfall caused by these twin weather disturbances. Included areas span Metro Manila and provinces such as Abra, Antique, Apayao, Bataan, Batanes, Batangas, Benguet, Bulacan, Cagayan, Cavite, Ifugao, Ilocos Norte, Ilocos Sur, Isabela, Kalinga, La Union, Laguna, Mountain Province, Nueva Ecija, Nueva Vizcaya, Occidental and Oriental Mindoro, Pampanga, Pangasinan, Palawan, Romblon, Rizal, Tarlac, and Zambales.\n\nGovernment agencies responsible for critical, health, disaster preparedness, and emergency response services will continue operations to maintain essential public functions. "Non-vital" employees, however, may be allowed to work under approved alternative arrangements.\n\nLocal government executives are empowered to impose work and class suspensions in areas not covered by the memorandum. Meanwhile, suspensions in private sector offices and companies remain subject to the discretion of their respective management. The Palace emphasized that these measures aim to safeguard citizens and ensure preparedness for the approaching typhoon and adverse weather conditions.

UP Cebu Students Hold Candlelight Vigil to Commemorate Martial Law Victims

On Sunday, September 21, students from the University of the Philippines-Cebu assembled in front of the campus to honor the victims of Martial Law through a solemn candlelight vigil. The event, marking the anniversary of Martial Law declaration in 1972, was a powerful reminder of the enduring struggle for democracy and respect for human rights. The candles served as symbols of both mourning and resilience, representing a collective call to remember the individuals whose voices were silenced during this dark period in history. Organized by UP Fiat, CommAP, and the 1081 Exhibit, the activity aimed to shed light on the human rights violations experienced under Martial Law and pay tribute to those who bravely stood against state oppression. This gathering reinforced the importance of remembering past abuses to ensure that such violations never recur. It also highlighted the ongoing commitment of the youth to uphold democratic principles and human dignity. "This vigil is not only a remembrance of our history but a call to remain vigilant in protecting our freedoms," a student organizer stated. The event fostered reflection and solidarity among participants, emphasizing that the lessons of the past continue to shape the present and future of the nation.

Clash at Mendiola Protest Results in Multiple Arrests and Injuries

A protest denouncing government corruption at Mendiola on Sunday intensified into violent clashes, resulting in the detention of 17 individuals and injuries to numerous police officers, alongside an assault on a frontline journalist. According to the Philippine National Police (PNP), approximately 400 protesters had assembled when a segment turned aggressive, throwing stones and Molotov cocktails at riot police and igniting fires. The PNP confirmed that several of those arrested are minors. Police reported that 39 officers were injured during the confrontation, with two requiring hospitalization. "Seventeen individuals believed to be responsible are now in the custody of the Manila Police District," the PNP stated, adding that appropriate charges are being prepared against those involved. The violence was triggered when masked protesters clad in black hurled rocks, bottles, and paint at police personnel securing the Malacañang Palace vicinity. Video footage captured some assailants kicking police riot shields on Ayala Bridge while others set fire to tires on a parked trailer truck used as a barricade. A radio reporter livestreaming the event on Facebook sustained a facial injury after being struck by a rock. In response, the Presidential Task Force on Media Security (PTFoMS) condemned the assault, emphasizing the critical need to ensure journalist safety. PTFoMS Executive Director Jose Torres Jr. remarked, "This incident highlights the urgent need to protect journalists, whose work is essential in ensuring the public\'s right to accurate and timely information." Investigators are currently probing the protesters\' affiliations, noting that some displayed a flag featuring the "Straw Hat Pirates" Jolly Roger from the Japanese manga "One Piece." The PNP reiterated its commitment to maintaining safety for both the public and demonstrators. "We will continue to exercise maximum tolerance, but we will also act against anyone who causes harm or damages property," the police added.